Stuart Griffin Takes Helm as Fonterra Australia Suppliers' Council Chair

Stuart Griffin has been appointed as the Chair of the Fonterra Australia Suppliers' Council, marking his return to leadership after a three-year hiatus. Griffin, who operates a 500-cow dairy farm in Gippsland, is tasked with navigating the council through a pivotal period as Fonterra's Australian operations transition away from the New Zealand-based cooperative model. This separation requires careful management of supplier relationships and clear communication about operational changes impacting farmgate pricing and milk collection logistics.

Griffin has a strong background in both veterinary science and dairy farming, having initially worked as a veterinarian in northern Victoria before returning to his family's farm. His election comes as the council seeks to reinforce its commitment to advocating for dairy producers across Victoria and Tasmania. Griffin emphasized the importance of ensuring an informed supplier base throughout the transition period, supported by the council's collaborative approach with Fonterra management.

The Suppliers' Council, under Griffin's leadership, aims to address immediate producer needs while also focusing on longer-term strategic positioning. Griffin succeeds Paul Weller, who served as Chair from April 2024 to October 2025 and remains a key figure as Regional Director for Northern Victoria. Griffin's leadership is expected to maintain continuity and institutional knowledge within the council's structure, ensuring a smooth transition in leadership and ongoing regional representation.

In addition to governance responsibilities, Griffin plans to engage actively with initiatives like the 'Proud to be a Dairy Farmer' and 'Get to know Fonterra' programs, which aim to inspire future generations to pursue careers in the dairy industry. These programs are crucial in addressing workforce challenges and succession planning concerns, ensuring the sector's sustainability in regional Victoria and Tasmania.